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Understanding Pollen Allergies

Feb 04, 2019

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Understanding Pollen Allergies

If you are allergic to pollen and live in Florida, I have some sad news for you: pollen season is approaching, and it is going to be a bad one. Pollen counts are growing higher and higher every season, and this season is no exception. Seasonal allergies, also known as allergic rhinitis, affect eight percent of adults and children in the United States.

You may be aware that pollen is the fine, yellowish powder released by trees, flowers, and plants that help to fertilize greenery. Pollen can be spread by insects, birds, and even the wind. Being allergic to pollen is a common, albeit annoying, condition to suffer from. Some local news programs may show predicted pollen count alongside the weather forecast since so many Americans deal with pollen allergies on a daily basis.

Symptoms of pollen allergies include:

  • Runny nose
  • Nasal congestion
  • Itchy nose
  • Sneezing
  • Itchy, watery eyes
  • Coughing

Avoiding pollen altogether can be extremely difficult. You may walk outside right now and see pollen covering your sidewalks or your car. Complete avoidance may be impossible, but there are ways that you can protect yourself and your loved ones from pollen allergies this season.

  • Keep your car and house windows tightly shut
  • Limit unnecessary time spent outdoors
  • Over-the-counter medication such as nasal sprays, antihistamines, or decongestants
  • Request an allergy consultation with an ENT physician

Everyone’s allergies are different. If you find your allergies to be eating away at your day, make an appointment with an allergist at your local ENT office. These specialized physicians can go over the extent of your allergies and walk you through the best way to deal with them going forward.

So, go pick up your nasal sprays, antihistamines, decongestants, or call today to make an appointment with Vitale ENT, and stop letting pollen allergies get in your way. 813-406-4400.